Help Daniela raise money

Climbing for Change

I’ve always been an active person, growing up in the mountains of Transylvania. Back home, I competed in track and field for over 20 years, and I’ve always loved skiing, skating, running, swimming, hiking, and camping.

But in 2010, a nasty fall changed everything. I damaged my right hip, developed tendonitis in my ankle, and soon couldn’t put weight on my feet. For years I wore an air cast, limped daily, and struggled not only with my physical health but also my mental well-being. The extra weight and constant pain were discouraging, but I never stopped pushing forward—especially because I wanted to be a role model for my daughter. She followed in my footsteps, joining track and field and even ranking in Alberta’s Top 10 for a couple of years with help from my ‘Romanian Coaching Method’. Watching her grow and continue to challenge herself has been one of my proudest achievements.

Two years ago, I had a turning point. I realized I was letting life pass me by. I started walking my dog longer distances, joined a line dancing group with my girlfriends, and fell in love with it—now I’m part of the Edmonton Line Dancing team! I also joined a fitness club, go to Aqua Fitness most mornings, and slowly but surely, my health has improved.

Hiking and long-distance walking have always been passions of mine, and now that I’m feeling stronger, I don’t want to waste the chance to live fully again.

That’s why I’m so excited to take on this year’s Climbing for Change challenge in support of KDM Helping Hands. This climb represents resilience, growth, and giving back—values that mean so much to me.